Notre Dame Outdoor Tour - Optional Sainte-Chapelle or Crypt entry
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
At Scenic Zest, we believe in experiencing Paris your way! What truly sets our tour apart is the power of choice. Start with our captivating walking tour and then customize your adventure by adding optional tickets for quick entry to the dazzling Sainte-Chapelle, the ancient Crypt, or the revolutionary Conciergerie.
If you choose an entry option, enjoy a smooth and easy visit. Your guide handles all ticketing, personally escorting you to the entrance and scanning you in for a seamless, hassle-free process. Our tours guarantee a personal experience, filled with the compelling stories and hidden details that bring the history of Paris to life. Choose your perfect tour and let Scenic Zest handle the details for an unforgettable day.
Available options
Notre Dame Exterior Only
Notre Dame Exterior Only: This is exterior option only. No Sainte Chapelle nor Crypte.
Walking Tour + Sainte-Chapelle
Outdoor Notre Dame + SC Ticket: Guide will tell you about the history of Notre Dame (Outdoor no entry) and than will take you inside Sainte Chapelle.
Notre Dame Outside + Crypte
Walking Tour + Crypte Entry: Walking tour outside Notre Dame (only outdoor) + Entry to crypte archéologique
What's included
Quick Entry Sainte-Chapelle (if option is selected)
Professional, local guide with live expert commentary
Combined Ticket for Sainte-Chapelle & Conciergerie (if option is selected)
Entry Ticket to the Archaeological Crypt (if option is selected)
Intimate small-group walking tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Our tour begins at the historic statue of Charlemagne. Here, your guide will set the stage, providing a grand introduction to Île de la Cité, the island where Paris was born. We'll discuss its pivotal role in French history and get our first overview of the legendary Notre Dame Cathedral, outlining its incredible story from its medieval origins to the present day.
2
After our introduction, we will move closer to the cathedral's magnificent facade. Your guide will draw your attention to the intricate details you might otherwise miss. We will focus on the stunning sculptures of the portals, the famous gargoyles and chimeras, and the groundbreaking Gothic architecture of the flying buttresses that have supported the cathedral for centuries.
3
We'll take a short, scenic stroll to the banks of the River Seine to discover the iconic green stalls of the Bouquinistes. A Parisian tradition for centuries, these open-air booksellers are so unique they are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your guide will share their fascinating history as you browse their collections of antique books, vintage prints, and charming souvenirs
4
Stop 4
As we walk through Île de la Cité, your guide will point out the grand Haussmannian architecture that defines modern Paris. Learn how Baron Haussmann's radical transformation in the 19th century tore down medieval streets to create the elegant stone buildings and wide boulevards we see today, forever changing the face of the city.
5
Stop 5
For guests with Sainte-Chapelle booking: Sainte-Chapelle is included and is a self-guided tour.
What's not included
Gratuities for your guide
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Entry tickets to monuments, unless the specific ticket option is selected at checkout
Entry into Notre Dame Cathedral (this tour focuses on the exterior only)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
2 reviews
5★
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4★
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3★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
12 reviews
5★
12
4★
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meeting Point: At the Charlemagne statue. You’ll find your guide wearing a black cap with the Scenic Zest Logo. Check-in will start 15 minutes before the start time.
Important notes
Simply meet your guide at the designated meeting point (the Statue of Charlemagne) at your scheduled tour time. Your guide holds all pre-booked monument tickets for the group.
About Paris
Paris, the capital of France, is a city steeped in history, art, and romance. Known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and charming neighborhoods, Paris offers a unique blend of timeless elegance and modern vibrancy. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, the city is a treasure trove of cultural and historical gems.
Top Attractions
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is Paris's most iconic landmark and a symbol of France. Built in 1889 for the World's Fair, it offers breathtaking views of the city.
Architecture
2-3 hours
€17.10-€26.80 (depending on the level)
Louvre Museum
The Louvre is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris. It houses thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
Museum
3-4 hours
€17 (full price), free for under 18s and EU residents under 26
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture and one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. It has been undergoing restoration since the 2019 fire.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free (towers and crypts may have reopening fees in the future)
Montmartre
Montmartre is a historic and artistic district known for its bohemian past, charming streets, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore (Sacré-Cœur dome visit €6)
Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790.
Historical
Full day
€18-€28 (depending on the pass)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Croissant
A buttery, flaky pastry made from laminated dough. Best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.
Breakfast
Contains gluten and dairy
Baguette
A long, thin loaf of French bread with a crispy crust and soft interior. Often served with cheese or ham.
Breakfast/Lunch
Contains gluten
Steak Frites
A classic French dish consisting of steak and French fries, usually served with a side of salad and béarnaise sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains gluten (if served with fries) and meat
Crêpes
Thin pancakes that can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients, such as Nutella, cheese, or ham.
Snack/Dessert
Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options available
Popular Activities
Hot air balloon rides
Rock climbing in Fontainebleau forest
Kayaking on the Seine
Picnicking in the Luxembourg Garden
Boat tours on the Seine
Spa day at a luxury hotel
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending a cabaret show
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Paris, with warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Paris is generally safe for travelers, but pickpocketing and petty theft can be a problem in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Charles de Gaulle Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
- Orly Airport • 14 km (8.7 miles) from city center
By train
Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon
By bus
Bercy Seine, Porte Maillot
Getting around
Public transport
The Paris Metro is one of the most efficient and extensive subway systems in the world, covering all major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, G7
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Le Marais
Montmartre
Latin Quarter
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Champs-Élysées
Day trips
Versailles
17 km (10.5 miles) from Paris • Full day
The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790 and is famous for its opulent interiors and vast gardens.
Giverny
75 km (47 miles) from Paris • Half day to full day
Giverny is a charming village known as the home of the famous impressionist painter Claude Monet. The village is home to Monet's House and Gardens, which inspired many of his most famous works.
Château de Fontainebleau
55 km (34 miles) from Paris • Full day
The Château de Fontainebleau is a grand royal château and park located just outside of Paris. It was a residence of the French monarchs from Louis VII to Napoleon III and is known for its beautiful architecture and vast forests.
Festivals
Fête de la Musique • June 21st (annual)
Paris Fashion Week • February and September (annual)
Nuit Blanche • First Saturday in October (annual)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic French phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
- Use public transport, walk, or bike to get around the city and avoid traffic and parking issues
- Consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass or a multi-day public transport pass to save money on attractions and transport
- Explore the city's many neighborhoods and hidden gems, not just the major tourist attractions
- Try local specialties and enjoy the dining experience slowly and leisurely
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
